Ancient Chinese Art Form

Acrobat Balances Partner on Bamboo Pole

Kong Lingwei has dedicated nearly three decades to mastering the ancient technique that leaves audiences breathless

AUG 18, 2026 13:29

1 min read

Acrobat Balancing A Stunt Man On a 6-Meter-Long Bamboo

Footage of an extraordinary Chinese acrobatic performance has captured widespread attention online. The video shows acrobat Kong Lingwei lying on his back while balancing a six-meter bamboo pole on his body. A second performer climbs the pole, hangs from it, and executes aerial maneuvers high above the ground.

According to details published alongside the footage, Kong has devoted nearly 30 years to perfecting this skill. The technique is rooted in China's ancient acrobatic tradition, which combines strength, flexibility, balance, and precise control of movement.

During the performance, Kong serves as the human foundation for the pole. While maintaining a stable position, the second performer uses the pole to climb, suspend himself, and execute his aerial routine.

What appears to spectators as an almost impossible feat is, for the performers, the result of prolonged practice, physical preparation, and exact coordination.

Kong Lingwei remains modest about the achievement. "The audience enjoys it for a few minutes," he says, "but it took me 30 years of daily training to reach the level of control required."